The ‘Teen Mom’ star admitted that she is ‘addicted to relationships’ — but what does that really mean? HollywoodLife.com consulted an expert to understand what Jenelle is going through.

Jenelle Evanshas made more than a few questionable relationship choices, but are they all stemming from the same basic problem? HollywoodLife.com consulted an expert to explain how “deeply low self worth” can lead a young woman to relationship dependency.

Jenelle Evans: An Addict When It Comes To Relationships

In contrast to her drug rehab program, Jenelle blogged about her relationship addiction on her Sulia page, saying “I need individual counseling and therapy if anything for being addicted to relationships. I can honestly admit this about myself and can’t seem to help it unless I continue to get the help I need through therapy.”

Jenelle may have wanted to take some of the spotlight off of her drug problems, but relationship addiction is actually just as valid.

Relationship Expert Dr. Phil Dembo tells HollywoodLife.com EXCLUSIVELY, “Relationship Addiction is a very difficult form of addiction to get resolved. When you are addicted to alcohol, you can find a way to live without the alcohol. But when you are ‘addicted to love,’ it is very hard to find a way to live without relationships.” Relationships can be a really healthy part of life, but a dependency on others can lead to destructive behavior.”

Jenelle Evans: Relying On Relationships To Affirm Her Self-Worth?

“Young girls can often find themselves dependent on the love of their partner, the identity of being a couple to validate who they are,” Dr. Dembo explains. “This type of addiction is born out of a deeply low self worth, and belief that you are not ‘enough’ unless you are with someone. So, the complete dependency and focus is to be in a relationship…regardless how healthy it may or may not be.”

Jenelle Evans: Stay Single

Our expert’s advice for Jenelle and other young daters: “Young women need to find a way to like themselves, be comfortable with who they are before they have any business being in any type of relationship,” says Dr. Dembo.

“The best true remedy for Relationship Addiction is to find a very good therapist or Life Coach who can teach the skills necessary to create the boundaries and learn to not just be alone, but be OK alone,” says Dr. Dembo. “With a healthy support system, a clear understanding of the dynamics of addiction and the ability to feel ones self worth, relationships can once again be a wonderful addition to ones life rather than an addiction to ones identity.”